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Friday, December 30, 2011

Ana Forrest has developed an awesome healing style of yoga, which you can read more about at www.forrestyoga.com. I am the only Forrest Yoga teacher in Kansas, and you can start practicing Forrest Yoga with me on Tuesday, January 3, 2012. Here's the ongoing info:

Days/Times: Tuesday evenings (6:45 pm)

Saturday mornings (10 am)

These are 75-90-minute classes.

Location: My home in northwest Wichita, Kansas

Cost: $12 per class—the “drop-in” rate

$60 for a 6-class package—no expiration and no refunds

$60 for a private session or 2-person session (call or email to schedule)

Gift certificates available.

No previous yoga experience is necessary! Contact me at miller.leta@gmail.com.

Here's a quote from Ana Forrest describing her excellent work:

As a beginner to FY, you learn to breathe deeply and connect in feeling with your body. As you progress, you get proficient at safely tailoring each pose to work best for you, particularly with physical and emotional injuries. Learning to work honestly at your edges, you develop effective tools to deal with fear, struggle, and breakthroughs. This makes it possible for integrity, self-awareness and playful curiosity to become part of your daily life.

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Glorious winter solstice to all!
I LOVE the Notes from the Universe by Mike Dooley. I especially appreciate the one from Dec. 20, so I offer it here for your consideration and enjoyment:The top 10 things dead people want to tell living people are:

1. They're not dead.
2. They're sorry for any pain they caused.
3. There's no such thing as a devil or hell.
4. They were ready to go when they went.
5. You're not ready.
6. They finally understand what they were missing.
7. Nothing can prepare you for the beauty of the moment you arrive.
8. Don't try to understand this now, but life is exceedingly fair.
9. Your pets are as crazy, brilliant and loving, here, as they were there.
10. Life really is all about love, but not just loving those who love you...

Sunday, December 11, 2011

A quote from Eugene Holden: "Your desires and God's will for your life are the same thing. God desires to express fully and abundantly as you."
Desires tend to get a bad rap. We've even heard that desire is the root of suffering. Not so! It is the God-given essence, the desires of our hearts, that lead us to live to our potential, to be the fully-vibrant expressions of God that we came here to be. When we follow our hearts' desires, we are happy and free, and we are blessings to our world. When we don't, we are stressed and unhappy and spiritually imprisoned, and not much good to anyone.
Our lives ARE answered prayer--we are continually and perfectly supported in love, offered in every moment our hearts' desires. Let's accept this overflowing love and be all we can be!
Love and joy,
Leta

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Life can get crazy around the holidays, with a mountain of extra busy-ness we pull down upon ourselves. Let's give ourselves the gift of taking a few moments to consider all we do relative to the holidays--does it really need to be done, or done in the way "it has always been done"? Here are some suggestions:
1) Clean AFTER a party or a visit by guests, and not so much before. Those folks who would fuss about your cleaning efforts should maybe be dropped from the guest list? Most folks don't notice or care about such things.
2) Start an investment account for beloved children in your life, rather than giving them meaningless toys or clothes they'll soon grow out of or dislike. Regular contributions build up to an amazing gift in the future, and greatly simplify your gift-giving efforts.
3) Ask for help. This is an excellent practical and spiritual practice. We are here to be blessings for each other--give someone the opportunity to help you and you both benefit.
4) At least once a week, enjoy a "get to" activity (as opposed to "have to"), such as attending a concert, reading a good book by the fire, or relaxing in a warm, scented bath. A well-cared-for and relaxed you is much more pleasant to be around.
5) Invite those you celebrate with to consider new ways of doing things. More thinkers mean more creative ideas, such as a new theme for a Christmas feast. We had "Christmas pizza" for several years, because that was the one food everyone in the family loved.
We can change, and we can simplify, and we can live a graceful, peaceful December. Give it some thought! Merry Christmas!
Love and joy,
Leta

Sunday, November 13, 2011

A quote from Eugene Holden:
"In order for you to be a beneficial presence in the world, you must be disciplined enough to live your purpose and shine your light in the world."
"Living your purpose" is a loaded phrase that seems to cause lots of frustration. There is a tendency to think that one's purpose has to be some lofty save-the-world thing. Not so. It can be a daily thing, for example, "to smile no matter what comes my way today." It can also be broad and open. I consider my purpose to be "bringing people together." That has happened through me in all sorts of joyful ways. The latest means in this process is the yoga teacher training. Discipline was definitely involved--on many days, it was all I could do just to show up for another 12-hour day. But it was SO worth it, and the 45 lights that have gone out from that training are shining brightly, literally, around the world.
We all have something unique to contribute as "a beneficial presence in the world." Otherwise we would not be here. You are not doing yourself or anyone else any favors by hiding your light. Be disciplined, be courageous, be open-hearted, shine brightly!
Love and Blessings,
Leta

Friday, November 4, 2011

This is the first in a series of "Lessons Learned in Forrest Yoga Teacher Training."
I spent the month of October in an intensive (to put it mildly!) yoga teacher training in Houston, Texas, with the wonderful yogi, Ana Forrest. The first learning directive I received was "stop apologizing for your existence!" How quickly Ana and her assistants saw through my exterior. "Apologizing" is a pattern I've operated under since I was a young child.
The most noticeable way this shows up is automatically saying "Sorry" even when it's not applicable or I don't mean it. Other examples are saying "Sorry" about something over which I have no control, and for minor mistakes that are common to all and no big deal. Another is apologizing when I feel the need to ask for help. There's nothing wrong with asking for help!
I've found that a good way to become more aware of this tendency in myself is to notice when others say "Sorry," and note whether it's meaningful or simply automatic and unnecessary. This helps me pay more attention to "Sorry" coming out of my mouth.
It's an ongoing learning process, to be sure. And I'm NOT sorry about that :)
Love and joy,
Leta

Saturday, September 3, 2011

Each of us truly does many things each day worthy of celebration, even if it's just a couple of steps of "happy dance." Yet we tend to focus on what we did wrong, or what we didn't do that we should have done, or that we are simply inadequate in general. This focus does not support well-being on any level.
Instead, let's change thought by thought by thought, the way change truly happens anyway. Right now, think of something you've done in the last hour, no matter how small, and celebrate it. I went to both the Farmers' Market and the grocery store. Though these seem like ordinary activities, I can celebrate that it is a beautiful morning to be outside, I was able to smile at lots of folks, I stocked our frig with fresh healthy food, and I saved my husband from having to do the shopping chores later. See-even the routine activities have lots to celebrate if we give ourselves a positive focus rather than the negative one. I'll let you in on a personal secret--when I do something I feel especially good about, I say to myself, "Damn, I'm good!" It makes me smile, and it inspires me to keep the joy flowing, and CELEBRATE IT!
Love and joy,
Leta

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

An in-depth book study of The Journey Home, The Story of Michael Thomas and the Seven Angels

This book is a Kryon (www.kryon.com) parable rich in loving and uplifting spiritual wisdom. We'll look at its meaning and application in daily life. The class will be an extremely "Feel Great!" experience.

Kryon is a channeled entity similar to Abraham that comes through Esther Hicks (Money and The Law of Attraction, etc.).

The class is 8 weeks long, Thursday evenings from 7-9:30 pm. September 1/8/15/22, NO OCTOBER CLASSES, November 3/10/17, December 1

The cost is $150. A deposit of $25 reserves your place in the class. The balance is due by the end of the class--you do not have to pay it all up front! The class will be held at Leta’s home in Wichita. Class size is limited to 12--get your reservation in early. You need to purchase your own copy of the book--it is available on the Kryon website or Amazon. There are NO prerequisites for this class, all are welcome!

Sunday, August 14, 2011

This quote comes from my mother-in-law's church bulletin, author unknown:
"May God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in this world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done."

Every single one of us DOES make a difference in the world. We would not bother coming here if that were not the case. So yes, let's have the foolishness to put ourselves to good use! Do you have the confidence, courage, and persistence to try new things, or do you live in fear of failure or of what others may think of you?

There's an element of joy and fun in "foolishness"--it truly is an adventure to push yourself beyond what you think are your limits. Those personal limits don't actually exist--we can always do at least a bit more than we think we can.

I can think of lots of things that others claimed could not be done: people flying, a man on the moon, cures for various diseases, portable phones, and so on. What great idea is lying within you? Do us all a favor and let your foolishness shine!
Blessings!
Leta

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

If one hangs out in time and space long enough, they'll inevitably learn it's through the twin gateways of persistence and patience that masters become masters, of all things.Mike Dooley, Notes from the Universe

Persistence and patience—two things that require practice.Speaking of practice, truly I believe that is the story of life here on earth.Practice, practice, practice.As babes, we practice walking until we “get it.” We practice reading and writing until we “get it.” Relationships are a life-long practice.I could go on and on.

One practice I especially love is yoga.Not only is it good for me physically, but it also helps me tremendously with the aforementioned persistence and patience.Persistent dedication to yoga has enabled me to develop great love for and patience with my body, and these spread into every area of my life.The breathing practice that is an essential element of yoga gives me a vibrantly healthy, well-oxygenated body.The balance practice in yoga brings balance into all aspects of living.Yoga is definitely a path to mastery—why not give it a try?

Friday, August 5, 2011

I heard this last night on Baseball Tonight, and I missed who said it--all I can say is that it's not original to me.

"If you can fake sincerity, you've got it made." This made me laugh out loud. It makes my brain go, "Huh!?!?!" I'm thinking it probably takes as much energy to FAKE sincerity as it does to just be sincere. It's a goofy thought, but fun to roll around in your head.
Have a great weekend!
Cheers and joy (sincerely!),
Leta

Monday, July 25, 2011

"Generosity and gratitude turn good into great." Mike Dooley, Notes from the Universe

I was blessed with a wonderful father who was extremely generous, both with me and everyone else, and who spoke frequently about how blessed the Miller family is. He had a great handle on the spirit of Mike Dooley's quote.

I appreciate my dad's wisdom so much, and seek to apply this principle in my life daily. Sure, generosity can mean giving money, but it also means smiling at folks, not being in a hurry, making eye contact, holding a door open, saying "please" and "thank you"--you get it, small acts of kindness add up to a generous spirit.

Gratitude--that's pretty self-explanatory. Start with the fact that you can read this blog--eyes to see, brain to comprehend, technology to deliver it, and so on. If you can't whole-heartedly say, "I love my life!", it's time for some self-examination.

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

"Those who are motivated by fear, no matter how they justify such motivation to themselves, are working to keep the world in darkness." Ken Carey
This is a rather blunt statement indicating to me that living fearfully is not only personally detrimental, but also damaging to the human consciousness and the world in general. Fear has more far-reaching effects than we realize.
What does "motivated by fear" look like? People-pleasing. Inadequate self-care. Refusing to risk. Suspicious of others. Expecting bad stuff to happen. Trying to prevent bad stuff from happening. Worrying. Hoarding. Working at an unsatisfying job. Denying or stuffing feelings. Active addiction. "There's never enough _____." Just to name a few.
What's the opposite? The opposite is motivated by Spirit (inspiration!) for love and service. What does that look like? Loving self-care ("Love your neighbor as yourself."). Seeing the divine in all others. Living a "life is good!" attitude. Appreciating the ever-increasing blessings in life. Smiling. Using "please" and "thank you." Stretching into new experiences, no matter how frightening. Lifelong learning. Offering one's talents joyfully to the world.
It's an interesting exercise to consider one's motivation...
Lovin' life, spreadin' joy!
Leta

Sunday, July 10, 2011

I'm a practitioner (spiritual living coach), and I also use a practitioner for my own spiritual growth. In my monthly session this past week, it hit me--this opportunity I've been debating IS the thing I've been looking for lo, these many months! It's the "spiritual shove" I've been seeking. I've had these on an increasingly large scale over the past few years, and they have resulted in magnificent life experiences. So I said "Yes!" to the opportunity, and now trust that Spirit is making the way smooth and straight for me. I do the footwork, Spirit does the rest, and I don't have to mess in the "how." Way cool!!
Are you ignoring Spirit's knock on your door?!?!
Blessings,
Leta

Friday, July 1, 2011

Joyful July to all!
My topic for this blog describes my life at the moment. I have a big decision to make. Big in that there is a lot of money and time involved. Well, actually, those things are manageable. The real issue here is fear. Can I do what I'm signing up for? Can I complete it? What will I do with the new skills afterwards? I'm a bit afraid of both failure and success!
I am, however, OK with sitting with all this at the moment. I described to a friend my mental atmosphere as "uncomfortable but not unpleasant." I realize that my taking the time to BE with the uncertainty is a part of the commitment process. This is new for me! I used to despise being in "I don't know what to do!" mode. I wanted the decision over with, a neat and tidy package. I'm choosing to trust the process and see where it leads me. I'll keep you posted!
Blessings,
Leta

Monday, June 20, 2011

"Stop looking for happiness in other people. Our source of happiness and well-being is not inside others; it's inside us." Melody Beattie, Codependent No More
I'm re-reading Codependent No More. I think I should keep on re-reading it for the rest of my life. Not only do I continue to recognize more codependent behaviors in myself, but I also see that many of the issues experienced by friends and clients are rooted in codependency. This book offers good practices for modifying behavior to keep us focused on ourselves and our own lives, and staying out of others' lives.

It's a prescription for disaster to let one's happiness depend on other people, their behavior, or any other outer circumstance, acquisition or event. If we aren't happy with ourselves, we'll never be happy, because we are always with ourselves--as Rev. Michael Beckwith says, we can't divorce ourselves.

Where do we start? First of all, think of one thing you enjoy doing, make plans as needed to do it, and DO IT! Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. Enjoyment breeds more enjoyment.
Blessings,
Leta

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Think of every single thing that you "have to" do to get through a day as things you "get to" do... before your turn is over. Notes from the Universe by Mike Dooley.

This quote jolted me for several reasons. The first is "every single thing..." Not just stuff we like, not just good stuff, but everything! It's all good. The second is the reminder of "get to" rather than "have to." We always have a choice, so everything that we do is something we've selected to be part of our day, so yes, it's always a "get to," never a "have to." The third jolt is in the phrase "before your turn is over." What a great way to look at life, eternal life, that is--it's all a very long game, and each lifetime here on earth is our turn at the "earth game." Truly I think the reason so many folks love sports, i.e. games, is that we know on some level that all of creation, eternally, is a game, and we are created and born to earth to play.

Friday, June 3, 2011

“…we all have the guts to leave the ruts when we are motivated.” Linda McNamar

Whoa!I took a literal flying leap out of my rut by ziplining in Costa Rica last week.What an experience in trust—trusting the support people and equipment, trusting my body.Not only was the zipping an exhilarating and terrifying experience, but the climb up the mountain and launch stations took stamina I didn’t know I had. And I chose to ask for help, also not a routine practice in my rut.

My main motivation was that I don’t know if I’ll ever have this opportunity again, and I’d kick myself if I didn’t do it.Another motivation was conquering fear—thousands have done it, no reason I can’t.It’s another opportunity to say, “Been there, done that, got the t-shirt.”

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

"There is little in our lives we need to do that we cannot do better if we are peaceful. Few situations--no matter how greatly they appear to demand it--can be bettered by us going berserk." From Codependent No More by Melody Beattie.

Chances are there are way too much rush, panic, pressure and demands for immediate reactions in your life. There's the issue--we react, instead of taking the time to consider and CHOOSE our responses. I am (slowly!) learning from my husband the calm, thoughtful, "just the facts, ma'am" approach to handling situations. It's a good thing to ask for time to consider your response rather than emotionally jumping into quicksand! Been there, done that, plenty of times!

So today, when pressured, give some thought to slowing down and considering options--there are always at least two--good attitude and bad attitude. :)
Blessings,
Leta

Saturday, May 14, 2011

'I wonder what would happen if we all acted as gracious hosts in our world in every moment. In order to do that, we would have to consider ourselves "at home" wherever we are.' From Rev. Dr. Linda McNamar
This is an invitation to be so comfortable in our own skin that wherever we are, we are focused on the grace that lives as us and how we can practice it in our world. Simple acts of kindness practiced regularly uplift the entire human consciousness. Some examples: smile; help a fellow shopper; be patient waiting in line; say "please" and "thank you"; surprise someone with a flower and uplifting note; silently bless harried travelers and workers in an airport. What other ways can you live as a "gracious host"?
Blessings and grace,
Leta

Monday, May 9, 2011

I spent a couple hours on Mother's Day morning sitting on the front steps transplanting seedlings into bigger pots. It was a beautiful morning and it felt very meditative and holy. The basil plants I was moving into bigger pots started out as seeds about the size of the period at the end of this sentence. In that tiny seed was the pattern for the shape and size of leaves and how the plant grows, the smell of the leaves (not rose-smell or orange-smell, but basil-smell), and the glorious taste of the leaves. I see yummy pesto in each plant's future.
All I did was plant the seeds and give them the proper conditions to grow. The Universe took care of the rest. What seeds might you plant today? Can you trust the Universe to provide the details?
Truly, gardening is a holy pursuit!!!
Have a great week!
Leta

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

While I understand the relief of some folks that Osama bin Laden is no longer on earth, I do not see his killing as an event appropriate to celebrate. Do we want to teach our children that murder should be celebrated, especially when it's someone we don't like?!?!?
What I AM celebrating is that so very many folks are NOT celebrating this event. Hatred and violence only breed more of the same, and the human consciousness is realizing this on a more massive scale every day. Now THAT is worth celebrating! Let's be the peace and love we want to see in our world!
Blessings,
Leta

Monday, April 25, 2011

I purchased an artsy little poster on a recent visit to Omaha. It says: "You choose which party you shall attend!" This powerful quote and associated artwork is by Mary Anne Radmacher.
So, which party are you attending here on earth? The one with the fun, uplifting, adventuresome people who are always ready to do, be and have something new? -or- The doom-and-gloom party with the folks who discuss the problems of the world and their lives ad nauseum, and who see nothing good to celebrate?
Edwene Gaines, fabulous spiritual teacher, says, "Earth is the party planet, didn't you know?" We did not come here to suffer! We are here to glorify life with ever-expanding joy.
Maybe it's time for a change of party? Worth considering...
Blessings,
Leta

Monday, April 18, 2011

This quote comes from Chris Michaels: "You are alive only to the degree that you're trying something new." Trying something new pulls us out of our comfort zone, and stirs up that God-given, powerful, creative force within us. It brings us into the flow of life that is always seeking to expand through us.

How alive will you be today? What new thing, no matter how small, can you try? Here are some ideas:

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

From Joan Borysenko's book, A Pocketful of Miracles (March 30):
"Patience is related to authentic spiritual courage. It is deep faith that the universe is unfolding as it should, even when things are not happening according to our own plans or timetables. All we can do is act with integrity, in accordance with our priorities and the guidance of the still, small voice within. After that, we must surrender all attachment to the results."

I like this quote a lot. It inspires me to see patience as a worthwhile quality for me to aspire to have, rather than something I must make myself have in order to endure seemingly endless waiting.
It is awesome how the universe delivers the most wonderful things in perfect timing when I relax and know all is well, rather than doing the spiritual foot-tapping of "when is it gonna show up?!??!"

Saturday, March 19, 2011

'You begin each day with an attitude that "this is the best day of my life, and by the end of this day, I will have a deeper realization about the universe, about the Invisible, about myself and the true art of living.'

How would your days be different if you truly believed that each one is the best day of your life? Interesting question to ponder...

The quote is from the book, Spiritual Liberation, by Rev. Dr. Michael Bernard Beckwith.

The Playshop at Unity in Wichita last Sunday was a great success! I'll be doing a repeat performance this coming Saturday, March 26 in Louisville, KY, from 1- 4 pm. The location is University of Louisville, Founders Union Bldg, 9001 Shelbyville Road, Louisville. It's offered on a love offering basis. Good stuff! If you are in the area, I'd love to have you bless our group with your presence! Blessings!
Leta

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

The Source of Love is within us, infinite and unending love. We shall expand our inner “cups” that hold love through discussion, play, laughter, and self-exploration. We are our understanding of God in action, powerful living examples, and we “play well with others” when we first enjoy, nurture, and expand the one-of-a-kind gift each of us is. As we open our hearts to Spirit’s overflowing love, we fill our cups and joyfully offer the bountiful overflow to the world. Come and play!

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

A favorite affirmation is "I lead a charmed life, especially when traveling." You don't need to look far in a airport to see a stressed, weary, cranky traveler. My intentions and attitude regarding travel are so good that it is extremely rare for me to have a challenging experience. So I prefer to use my "travel bonus points" by being a blessing--polite to all the workers I encounter, blessing those weary and frustrated travelers, grateful to all those who make my experiences so great. What about you--do you add to the joy or the stress? Your call.
Blessings!
Leta

Sunday, February 13, 2011

I refer to myself as a former card-carrying control freak. My control tendencies are most evident in my schedule. I figure out how I want things to go and then go full speed ahead. Diversions are rarely appreciated!
Enter Spirit and Its bigger plans for me... along with the reminder that changes are a GOOD thing, and I can just go with the flow and be considerably happier. I also humbly remind myself that few others really care about my schedule--I am the one making myself stressed about following it! Relax! There's a greater divine order at play here than we can see. Trust, trust, trust!
Life is good!
Leta

Saturday, February 12, 2011

We so often get way ahead of ourselves (and the supportive Universe) by worrying about the future or trying to have it all laid out.

A quote from Kryon (as channeled by Lee Carroll): "Get to the place where you are content with that which is in you, which is God, and let all of the other things around you slowly develop in appropriateness as you learn what to do with your life. Do not decide in advance where you're going to go or what you're going to do."

Dramas and worrying aren't necessary. For the most part, the Universe comes up with a life that is SO much better than I imagined. I strive to trust that and simply do the next right thing.Blessings!Leta

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

"A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort."

Herm Albright

I love this quote!

Consider this, especially if you have children--what example are you setting for them? That life is difficult and something to be endured -or- that life is a wonderful adventure? It doesn't matter what you say, it's how you live.

Monday, February 7, 2011

At least I am striving to be a FORMER drama queen. Drama is a sign that I'm not trusting that the Universe is a friendly place, and also that I think Spirit can't handle the situation without my meddling. Drama is also a sign of me taking things personally, never a productive or satisfying situation.
There's a momentary or short-term drama, minor irritations that we let go. Then there are the long-term dramas, incidents or situations that can mire us weeks, months or years of resentment. Those long-term dramas take a lot of energy to sustain, energy that could be used way more productively elsewhere.
Our first defense against drama is awareness. Let's pay attention and note when we feel drama energy building (and we CAN all feel it--it does not feel natural or pleasant), and choose a path other than fueling the drama.
Have a great day!
Joy to you!
Leta

Sunday, February 6, 2011

My husband has been encouraging me to blog since I write every day anyway. Reading the blog setup info, I found this quote: "What will happen then? Who knows. It might be fun, though." That pretty much covers it. I don't know what will happen with the blogging adventure, but it might be fun :)

Too often we don't undertake new adventures because up-front, we can't come up with a well-laid-out, complete plan. Baby steps, baby steps. All we need to do is take the first step, then another, and another. Who knows. It might be fun to live that way, trusting the Universe to support us!

About this Brave Broad

Leta Miller is a spiritual living coach residing in Wichita, Kansas. Sharing her passion for life, she facilitates classes and playshops and offers individual coaching sessions and group programs.
Leta is a Level 1 Certified Forrest Yoga Instructor offering private yoga instruction in Wichita and classes at Clearwater Wellness Center west of Wichita. Leta is also a MELT Method Hand and Foot Instructor, offering workshops, private instruction and classes in Wichita and Clearwater.
She is the author of the book "WHOA! Slow Down and Ponder a Life of Wholeness, Health, Openness and Action." Leta’s website is www.believeenterprises.com.